Through the decades since its release, Steamboat Willie has received widespread critical acclaim, not only for introducing one of the world’s most popular cartoon characters, but for its innovation.

The film is notable for being the first cartoon with synchronized sound. It was also the first cartoon to feature a post-produced soundtrack using a fifteen piece band and the voice of Walt Disney himself as Mickey.

In 1994, Steamboat Willie was voted 13th greatest cartoon of all time. The film was also selected for preservation in the United States National Film Registry in 1998, being deemed culturally, historically, and aesthetically significant.

Issued by New Zealand Mint, as legal tender under the authority of Niue Island, and struck by The Perth Mint, only 1,928 1 Kilo silver proof coins will be released worldwide.

The coins reverse design captures a still frame from the iconic scene where Mickey Mouse is seen cheerfully standing at the boats wheel. Wrapped around the top of the coin is the engraved name of this breakthrough cartoon, STEAMBOAT WILLIE, and the year of its release, 1928.

The coin’s obverse features the Ian Rank-Broadly effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, the 2015 year-date and the monetary denomination. This coin is also individually numbered on the coin’s edge.

The coin is presented is a stylish slide out case-shipper and is accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity.